West Virginia Hunting License: Cost, Requirements & How to Apply (2026)
Complete guide to West Virginia hunting license costs, requirements, seasons, and regulations for the Jul 1, 2025 – Jun 30, 2026 season.
West Virginia Hunting License Fees 2026
Current hunting license costs for residents and non-residents. License year: Jul 1, 2025 – Jun 30, 2026.
Resident Licenses
Non-Resident Licenses
Tags & Permits
Endorsements & Stamps
How to Buy a West Virginia Hunting License
Multiple convenient options to get your license quickly.
Buy Online (Recommended)
Visit WVhunt.com. Create account or sign in. Select license class and stamps. Pay with credit/debit card ($2 transaction fee). Print your license
Buy In Person
~175 retail agents statewide, County clerk offices, Walmart stores, Local sporting goods stores
Buy By Phone
Call 304-558-2758. $2 transaction fee
Shop for hunting gear at our partners:
The easiest way to buy your West Virginia hunting license is online through the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources. You'll get your license instantly and can start hunting right away.
Hunter Education Requirements in West Virginia
Who Can Hunt for Free (or at a Discount) in West Virginia?
West Virginia Hunting Seasons 2026-2027
Key hunting season dates and weapon restrictions.
West Virginia Bag Limits
Daily and seasonal harvest limits for major game species.
How West Virginia Compares to Neighboring States
See how hunting license costs stack up in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions About West Virginia Hunting Licenses
How much is a hunting license in West Virginia?
Resident Class A (Hunting/Trapping) costs $19. The Sportsman license (Class X) is $35 — includes hunting, fishing, trapping, and big game stamp. Non-residents pay $119 for the annual hunting license.
Do landowners need a hunting license in WV?
No, West Virginia resident landowners can hunt on their own property without a license. Season dates and bag limits still apply. A Big Game Stamp is required for deer, bear, and turkey.
Can I hunt wild boar in West Virginia?
Yes, WV has Russian wild boar on select WMAs that can be hunted year-round with no bag limit. A valid hunting license and Big Game Stamp are required.
How much is a non-resident bear license in WV?
Non-residents must purchase the Class EE Bear Hunting License at $162. This includes Class E (general hunting) privileges. It's separate from the regular $119 Class E hunting license.
Can I buy a WV hunting license online?
Yes, at WVhunt.com with a $2 transaction fee. Also available at ~175 retail agents, county clerks, and Walmart stores statewide.
Do I need hunter education in WV?
Yes, all hunters born on or after January 1, 1975 must complete a certified hunter education course. WV offers a free online course with a required field day. The apprentice program allows first-time hunters to hunt under supervision.
How many deer can I harvest in West Virginia?
WV hunters get one buck in firearms season, with additional deer possible through stamps: archery ($21), muzzleloader ($16), and antlerless ($7 res/$27 NR) stamps. Additional gun deer stamps are $21 res/$43 NR.
Do seniors hunt free in West Virginia?
Residents who turned 65 before January 1, 2012 received free lifetime licenses. Those turning 65 on or after that date pay $25 for a Senior Class XS license that includes bear damage and trout stamps.